DeAndre Yedlin's chances of being available for the US national team's World Cup qualifiers later this month look questionable as the right back has been diagnosed with a thigh injury.

The news came after he was missing from the starting lineup and substitutes in Newcastle United's game against Reading on Tuesday.

According to Magpies head coach Rafa Benitez, Yedlin could be sidelined between one to two weeks as he suffered a slight tear in his thigh. Benitez said the team took measures to protect their player in their previous game against Huddersfield Town, but had to bring him on late in that game. However, that risk appeared to backfire as Yedlin complained of feeling uncomfortable.

The news could come as a blow to the US national team as it prepares for their CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers against Honduras on March 24 and Panama four days later.

Yedlin has been a crucial player for Newcastle this season as he has won plaudits from analysts for his play week in and week out for the first place Championship team.